Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) was recognized at the 2024 Regional Nutrition Awarding Ceremony, organized by the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Regional Office XII. The event took place at the Greenleaf Hotel in General Santos City on August 16, 2024. Representing SKSU were Dr. Jesusa D. Ortuoste, OIC University President; Mr. Lemuel P. Bravante, unit head of Nutriskwela 98.9FM 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐲𝐨 𝐊𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐛𝐚𝐧- SKSU; and Mr. Hernie C. Digdigan, SKSU’s Scaling-Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement focal person. The university received certificates of appreciation during the ceremony.
The event was attended by approximately 120 participants, including members of the Regional Nutrition Committee, Local Chief Executives, Local Nutrition Committees, Local Nutrition Focal Points, SUN Network partners, the Regional Media Group (Nutri-DOSE), Non-Government Organizations, and Private Sector Representatives. Several awards were presented to outstanding offices and organizations, including the RAISE Awards (Regional Awardees for Innovative Service Delivery on Eradicating Malnutrition), the White Heron Award, the STAR Award (Sustainable and Transformative Actions for Nutrition towards Reduced Stunting Rates), the Highest Early Onset of Pregnancy Tracker (EOPT) Coverage, Top Local Government Units (LGUs) with the Most Improved EOPT Coverage in the province, and the Most Active Social Media Page for Nutrition Programs.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Dr. Azucena M. Dayanghirang, Assistant Secretary and Executive Director of the NNC. In her speech, Dr. Dayanghirang emphasized the critical role of LGUs, partner organizations, and communities in combating malnutrition. She urged everyone to work together to sustain government initiatives such as the “Fresh Milk Supplemental Feeding Program,” which has significantly reduced malnutrition among young children.
